EPISODE · Nov 23, 2022 · 38 MIN
PBL Guest - How to Build a Culture Beyond Standards - Jon Acton | E104
from PBL Simplified for Administrators by Magnify Learning · host Magnify Learning
Jon Acton has done it all when it comes to education. He was a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. His life took a turn when he and two of his close friends were diagnosed with cancer two years ago. He is now a motivational speaker, climate and culture consultant, and author. His business is called Broken Shells, based on a realization that came to him during chemotherapy. He shares his story and journey. He also talks about climate and culture, the differences, and how to have a positive learning environment. We discuss the importance of knowing your why and the significance of “expect victory” in Jon’s life. Episode Highlights: [01:42] "Need to Know" How do I create a PBL culture in my staff and classrooms? [02:05] Care about your people and establish a positive culture. The current of culture takes you, even if you're not moving. [07:19] Jon's "why" is making a positive influence on the kids. [12:43] Two years ago, Jon was diagnosed with cancer. Two of his friends also had the same diagnosis. [15:28] Jon loves the beach and found thousands of broken shells. During chemo, he realized that we are all broken shells. [20:41] Climate and culture is your foundational piece to success. Focus on climate and culture for a happy staff. [22:05] Climate means immediate things that you can do to enhance your classroom. Culture is more long-standing. [26:04] You can't have a positive classroom culture with a toxic staff culture. [29:44] Decide if you're going to be vulnerable and don't be afraid to smile and go after the things you want. Resources & Links Related to this Episode What is PBL? Ask Ryan PBL Simplified: 6 Steps to Move Project Based Learning from Idea to Reality Magnify Learning YouTube Project Based Learning Stories and Structures: Wins, Fails, and Where to Start Ryan Steuer Twitter @ryansteuer PBL Workshops For Schools & Districts Community Partner Resources Strategies For Supporting PBL In Your School Or District Jon Gordon Broken Shells Jon Acton LinkedIn Jon Acton Twitter PBL Leadership Guest - How To Create a Winning School Culture - Coach John Bacon | Episode 96
What this episode covers
Jon Acton has done it all when it comes to education. He was a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. His life took a turn when he and two of his close friends were diagnosed with cancer two years ago. He is now a motivational speaker, climate and culture consultant, and author. His business is called Broken Shells, based on a realization that came to him during chemotherapy. He shares his story and journey. He also talks about climate and culture, the differences, and how to have a positive learning environment. We discuss the importance of knowing your why and the significance of “expect victory” in Jon’s life. Episode Highlights: [01:42] "Need to Know" How do I create a PBL culture in my staff and classrooms? [02:05] Care about your people and establish a positive culture. The current of culture takes you, even if you're not moving. [07:19] Jon's "why" is making a positive influence on the kids. [12:43] Two years ago, Jon was diagnosed with cancer. Two of his friends also had the same diagnosis. [15:28] Jon loves the beach and found thousands of broken shells. During chemo, he realized that we are all broken shells. [20:41] Climate and culture is your foundational piece to success. Focus on climate and culture for a happy staff. [22:05] Climate means immediate things that you can do to enhance your classroom. Culture is more long-standing. [26:04] You can't have a positive classroom culture with a toxic staff culture. [29:44] Decide if you're going to be vulnerable and don't be afraid to smile and go after the things you want. Resources & Links Related to this Episode What is PBL? Ask Ryan PBL Simplified: 6 Steps to Move Project Based Learning from Idea to Reality Magnify Learning YouTube Project Based Learning Stories and Structures: Wins, Fails, and Where to Start Ryan Steuer Twitter @ryansteuer PBL Workshops For Schools & Districts Community Partner Resources Strategies For Supporting PBL In Your School Or District Jon Gordon Broken Shells Jon Acton LinkedIn Jon Acton Twitter PBL Leadership Guest - How To Create a Winning School Culture - Coach John Bacon | Episode 96
NOW PLAYING
PBL Guest - How to Build a Culture Beyond Standards - Jon Acton | E104
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
Mar 26, 2026 ·1m
Jan 2, 2026 ·47m
Dec 21, 2025 ·46m